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Griffin attended Littlerock High School in Littlerock, California, and was a four-year letterman in soccer. He was a three-time first team All-League honoree, and as a senior, he was a Los Angeles Daily News first team All-Area honoree, and set the school single-season record for goals (24 goals).

Griffin played college soccer at the UCLA from 2000 to 2003. Griffin distinguished himself at the school, helping the team win a national championship in 2002, and being named an NCAA All-American in 2003.

Upon graduating from UCLA, Griffin was drafted 11th overall in the 2004 MLS SuperDraft by the Fire. In his first year Griffin had trouble establishing himself in a single role, but instead played a variety of defensive positions for the Fire when needed, finishing with 330 minutes over 9 games. He saw 3 games for the Fire in 2005, and 6 in 2006. Griffin was waived by the Fire during the 2007 pre-season, and signed by USL First Division side Portland Timbers, joining former UCLA teammate and fellow defensive standout Scot Thompson.

In September 2007, the Columbus Crew acquired his rights from the Chicago Fire, in exchange for the Crew's natural fourth-round selection in the 2008 MLS Supplemental Draft. In April, he was waived by the Crew to make room for the addition of Gino Padula.[1] He then rejoined the Timbers for the 2008 season.